Baofeng UV-5R5 vs Baofeng UV-K5 - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Baofeng UV-5R5 and Baofeng UV-K5? Below you'll find a side-by-side comparison of key features, specifications, and performance to help you decide which handheld radio best fits your needs. Click the link below for a full review and detailed test results.

FeatureBaofeng UV-5R5Baofeng UV-K5
Image
Radio NameBaofeng UV-5R5Baofeng UV-K5
Bands2m, 70cm2m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm3.1/26/5
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.4 v7.4 v
Rated mAh1800 mAh2500 mAh
Tested mAh1210 mAh1780 mAh
Antenna ConnectorM-SMAM-SMA
Height w/ant260 mm328 mm
Width58 mm62 mm
Thickness w/clip43 mm53 mm
Weight209 g315 g
Color ScreenNoYes
GPSNoNo
USB-C ChargingNoYes
Review LinkLINKLINK
Book LinkLINK-
Price$25$24
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramYYes
Rating by PriceDC
Rating OverallDC
Conclusions

The Baofeng UV-5R5 is a good radio, but I think you would be better served by buying a different model of the UV-5R. Personally, I think the BF-F8+ is the best variant of this radio currently available.

On the other hand, if you bought the Baofeng UV-5R5 or just really like that lime green button colors (it is cool on the lower keypad), there is nothing wrong here. Use it and enjoy it!

The Baofeng UV-K5 Plus is a well-rounded beginner radio with some nice accessories and reasonable performance. I think there might be better radios in this class, but not by much, and you probably wouldn’t get the nice second antenna and drop-in charger.

So would I recommend the K5Plus? Yes, but it is a tough call. The Baofeng UV-5RM Plus is a better radio overall, but it doesn’t come with a drop-in charger or a really nice extra antenna so that kinda stinks. They both have the horrible red menu color and require you to use programming software to do some simple tasks like change the screen timeout. In the end between those two, I would take this kit and be happy.